Phytotherapy
Treatments

Phytotherapy is an excellent option to treat sleep problems, especially mild to moderate insomnia. Its effectiveness depends on the cause of insomnia and the choice of the appropriate plant. For more severe or chronic cases, it can be complemented with other approaches such as sleep hygiene and behavioral therapies.

Phytotherapy (use of medicinal plants) is a natural approach to treating sleep problems and improving the quality of rest. Many plants have sedative, anxiolytic or circadian rhythm-regulating properties.

Medicinal plants to treat insomnia and improve sleep. Some examples:

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

• Effect: Natural sedative and anxiolytic. Promotes sleep conciliation and improves its quality.
• Mechanism: Increases the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that reduces brain arousal.
• Instructions for use: Infusion, liquid extract or tablets.
  Caution: Do not combine with alcohol or anxiolytics.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)

• Effect: Natural sedative and anxiolytic. Promotes sleep conciliation and improves its quality.
• Mechanism: Increases the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that reduces brain arousal.
• Instructions for use: Infusion, liquid extract or tablets.
  Caution: Do not combine with alcohol or anxiolytics.

Melissa (Melissa officinalis)

• Effect: Relaxing, useful for reducing anxiety and facilitating sleep.
• Mechanism: Acts on the central nervous system, relaxing the muscles and reducing nervous tension.
• Mode of use: Infusion or capsules.
• Caution: May lower blood pressure.

Linden (Tilia platyphyllos)

• Effect: Mild calming, useful for mild cases of insomnia.
• Mechanism: Acts on the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress.
• How to use: Infusion before bed.
• Caution: Avoid high doses in people with hypotension.

Hops (Humulus lupulus)

• Effect: Sedative and muscle relaxant.
• Mechanism: Acts on GABA and melatonin receptors, promoting sleep.
• How to use: Infusion or tincture.
• Caution: May enhance the effect of pharmacological sedatives.

California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

• Effect: Sleep inducer, useful in insomnia due to anxiety or stress.
• Mechanism: Promotes serotonin production and modulates GABA receptors.
• Instructions for use: Infusion or extract in capsules.
  
• Caution: May cause daytime drowsiness in high doses.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

• Effect: Adaptogen that reduces stress and improves sleep quality.
• Mechanism: Regulates cortisol and promotes balance in the nervous system.
• Instructions for use: Powder in capsules or infusion.
• Caution: Avoid in people with thyroid problems without medical supervision.

Other aids that we can get with Phytotherapy: Regulation of the circadian rhythm

General precautions

• Not all plants are safe for all people. Consult a professional if you take other medications.
• Avoid excessive or combined consumption of several plants with sedative effects.
• It is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women without medical supervision.